Implemented by:
ABSTRACT
iVoting is a transformative leap from traditional to modern election practices, championing democratic values and empowering youth as key advocates for democracy, inclusion, and the fight against fraud and corruption.
In Kenyan learning institutions, conventional election methods often face instability, hindering the democratic process. This challenge extends beyond education to government bodies, public entities, and private organisations.
The dearth of motivated youth participation stems from both inconvenience and a lack of confidence in election outcomes. For the past decade, the absence of essential platforms for youth engagement in leadership and civic education has significantly contributed to the erosion of democratic values within the nation.
In the light of this situation, iVoting has been conceived byKelvin Njoroge as a valuable solution to address these challenges by providing a secure and convenient platform, fostering increased youth engagement and enriching democratic practices within educational institutions. In the spirit of inclusion, the platform aims at creating forums for youth to collaborate, brainstorm, and discuss effective leadership, democracy, and civic participation with partners like Tuboreshe Pamoja.
Brief Description
iVoting is an innovative voting solution utilizing technology to redefine youth and democratic participation in elections. Established in 2019 by two young doctorates passionate about the use of technology and its role in the future of democratic participation, it prioritizes accessibility, security, efficiency, democratic justice, electoral inclusion, and civic participation. iVoting emerged from a youthful cohort’s aspiration for a seamless leadership transition, aiming to resolve unrest and instill confidence in the voting process. Actively engaging with students, especially the 80% youth demographic, iVoting has successfully curtailed election-related disruptions at Machakos University since 2019, setting a positive precedent for five consecutive years.
Objective
To facilitate a seamless transition towards enhanced democratic practices, youth engagement, and inclusive electoral processes through the implementation of iVoting. A sustained method of inclusivity will be created to engage other people living with disabilities, this with proper guidance from youth democratic cohorts’ guidelines.
Roadmaps:
1.Youth Cohort Engagement: Actively involve diverse youth groups across various universities, fostering a collaborative space for them to understand, adopt, and advocate for democracy, civic participation, good governance, and inclusion. Encourage open dialogues, workshops, and interactive sessions to promote a sense of shared responsibility in shaping democratic values.
2. Community Empowerment via Civic Organizations: Establish partnerships with civic organizations to extend the impact of iVoting beyond educational institutions. Collaborate on awareness campaigns, workshops, and outreach programs that empower local communities to embrace iVoting as a tool for active democratic participation.
3. Regional Collaborations for Democratic Advocacy: Initiate collaborations with institutions and organizations at regional levels, fostering a cross-institutional exchange of ideas and practices. By sharing success stories and challenges, create a network that supports the broader adoption of iVoting across Kenya and eventually throughout Africa.
4. Capacity Building and Training Programs: Develop comprehensive training programs for students, administrators, and civic leaders on the efficient utilization of iVoting. Ensure that individuals understand the system’s benefits, security measures, and democratic implications, fostering a knowledgeable and empowered electorate.
5. Continuous Feedback Loop: Establish a dynamic feedback mechanism involving joint youth groups, civic organizations, and other stakeholders. Regularly gather insights on system performance, user experiences, and suggestions for improvement. This iterative process ensures that iVoting evolves in tandem with the changing needs and expectations of its users, promoting a democratic tool that truly serves the people.
KEY OUTCOMES
The university has achieved the most peaceful leadership transition over 5 years.
12,000 students have thus far utilized the iVoting system, with their feedback indicating successful democratic inclusivity and civic participation among them.
The university has recorded the highest student election participation, with over 87.85% involvement, a significant increase from earlier rates of less than 50%, showcasing enhanced inclusion within the student voters.
Over 1,500 have participated in our educational forums on civic participation, inclusion, advocacy campaigns, leadership, and governance.
